Beer: Ratings & Reviews

Poured a reddish-brown in color with a thin, fleating head. It has a big, boozy nose, toasted malt, caramel, fruity/cherry notes, Brett and barrel. On the palate, lots of sweet malt, cherry fruitiness but a bit musty, tart, some oak...very complex and having a hard time describing. A bit thick/oily for the mouthfeel, but not overly so. A really interesting beer that challanges ones palate.

12 oz. bottle dated "Best After" 4/30/13. Poured into a tulip with a dark brown color and mahogony highlights. Small foamy beige head with moderate retention that settles into a thin crown and moderate lacing.

Aroma is massive and very complex. Huge barrel flavors abound. Dark cherry tartness combines with a big rye whiskey aroma. Woody. Vinous and a bit of cream/oloroso sherry-like sweetness and nuttiness which also imparts just a touch of oxidized character. A bit of brown sugar and vanilla.

Wow, this beer has a lot going on. A blend of four big beers isn't enough, so Deschutes just had to stick it in multiple barrels. Currently it's drinking very well, with all the barrel and beer flavors blending very smoothly. Sweet, dry, and tart flavors all combine to give it a phenomenal balance for such a complex and big beer. Sherry, bourbon, rye, and pinot noir barrels are all noticeable but none overpowering. This was definitely a treat.

Poured 12/26/14 from a 12oz bottle. Color is deep copper, almost brown, with a sliver of head and light bubbles. Smell is not overly strong, but I'm getting a hint of barleywine and whiskey. Taste hits me like a punch to the face: little at first, but then you get slight whiskey that develops into a wine flavor; definite booze punch that is tronger here than in some others I've had with as much or more ABV. There is an alcohol burn here. This beer finishes very tart, sour; which ruins it for me. This is not my style, and I did not do enough research to determine this is what I was getting. Feel was fine; carbonation was still strong with a dry finish. Sours just are not my deal, but I imagine those who enjoy them will love this.